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Named after the first ship to cross the Arctic Northeast Passage, SH Vega was designed to journey to faraway places and remote polar regions in style and comfort. This 5-star expedition ship incorporates elegant Scandi-design with the latest in cruising technology, and has a PC5 ice-strengthened hull, and extra-large stabilizers, to make your journey as smooth as possible.
Built in Finland’s famous Helsinki Shipyard, SH Vega was made for wonderful cruising experiences. Welcoming spaces to relax on board, unobstructed views throughout the ship, and world-class restaurants, staterooms and amenities mean sailing on SH Vega is always a pleasure.
We boarded in Barbados and sailed to Trinidad, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, 3 days in the Amazon disembarking in Belem, Brazil. I loved the fact that SH offered a trip along the north eastern South American coast as its was a unique chance to see a part of the world that is hard to get to. Highlights were visiting Georgetown, Guyana and exploring the City learning about its colonial past; Paramaribo, Suriname and seeing the historic old City; Iles de Salut in French Guiana - the infamous penal colony where Papillon was held and escaped from; sailing through the Amazon and taking multiple zodiac trips to look for wildlife and finally sailing along the Breves Narrow - with every villager waving and photographing us as much as we were photographing them! The boat is luxurious and it was a real pleasure to sail on it. The lounge areas were spacious, comfortable and well laid out. The Dining area was excellent and we were treated to wonderful meals every evening - always a different theme which made every meal something to look forward to. The hot tub and swimming pool were great vantage points to watch out to sea. The expedition crew were great fun and very well organised. We had a cabin on deck 5 which was plenty big enough with separate sleeping, tv/lounge and outdoor deck areas. Overall its a 10/10 from me - a thoroughly enjoyable trip and I'd definitely be looking at SH's future itineraries to interesting places. I always like to highlight any negatives but i haven't any to report on this trip!
First time on SH Vega. Stateroom (balcony on Deck 5) was amazing, with tons of storage. The service was great, and friendly. The other passengers were mostly US, England and Australia with a few from China. Age range was roughly 40's through 80's, with most in their 60's or early 70's I would say. The food was excellent, with a lot of choices. I enjoyed the educational presentations, and learned a lot. The included excursions were great and it felt safe getting to the ports in a zodiac. My favorite excursion was an add-on; a trip in a smaller boat through Disko Bay among the icebergs. There were a few minor itinerary/activity changes based on the seas, but the substitutions were acceptable. I did get seasick once, to my surprise, but for the most part the motion of the ship was not bothersome. I Would 100% travel with Swan Hellenic again.
SH Vega is an amazing ship with friendly capable crew. Very small and intimate so able to get into smaller areas the big ships can’t go. Only 100 on board so you got to know everyone. We had a very friendly largely Aussie group. Captain was very Ken to chat with guests and we saw him every day. He would stop the ship to get a better view of polar bears whales etc. we had an amazing experience and will definitely cruise with this line again. Cabin was spacious and had more storage than we could use. Bathroom was much better than many ships we have travelled on (only Silver Ray had a larger one) Food was delicious. Buffet breakfast (with eggs cooked to order)and lunch (large range of salads and cold meats with hot buffet dishes each day - usually themed to a different country each day) with a la carte dinners. Lovely flavours and sensible servings. Wait staff called you by name and remembered your preferred drinks. Common areas were one either side of a central staircase which made it easy to catch up with people. Exploration ship so lots of lectures by a team of knowledgeable guides.
We get one life and this expedition cruise was a precious and amazing lifetime experience. While it isn't your budget price the quality and uniqueness makes it true value. A once in a lifetime investment seeing the artctic, icebergs up close, polar bear Mum and cubs along with all the other experiences. I have been on large ship cruises, but this is nothing like them. It is like being at home, totally spoilt with nature on the doorstep. Our captian and crew were truly outstanding. caring, kind, fun and highly professional. Just do it. Life is too short! The staterooms are just beautiful, with your own fire (artificial for obvious reasons) that crackles and looks real along with stacks of storage and a larger bathroom than any others I have seen. Most days we were out on the zodiacs to see historic or other sites of natural.beauty. At night we were entertained by the talented Rene on the ivories along with informative lectures from the expedition crew members. Food was just fabulous.
By far the simplest and quickest boarding process in over 20 years of cruising. My first with SH and very pleased. The included airport transfers, pre-hotel, air, and transfer to ship were done very well. A spacious cabin with more storage than you would need for a 1 year cruise. The staff and crew were excellent and with 105 passengers at 2/3 capacity we all knew each other quickly. The staff and crew were attentive and sincere, and truly were a team to make sure the passengers were well cared for -- among the best I have seen in Silversea, Seabourn, Crystal and others. Wines were varied and available at lunch and dinner, several whites and reds, and nice roses. No bourbon bottle for my room, but no problem grabbing something at the bar and returning to check emails and relax. A fine expedition cruise experience. Disembarkation and airport transfer were convenient and comfortable.
The Elegant Scandi interior is designed in neutral tones using natural textures. The smooth lines and rounded walls allow for a relaxing yet light ambience. The rich textiles, varied textures and intimate lighting create a harmonious, comfortable environment. Lighting options for every mood, along with a mesmerizing holographic fireplace create the perfect relaxing space.
For the comfort of our guests, suites have a separate living room and bedroom. All staterooms are equipped with spacious wardrobes and bathrooms.
When it comes to dining on your expedition cruise, our ships have a variety of welcoming venues.
From the gourmet offerings of the Swan Restaurant, and the Pool Bar & Grill’s delicious dishes, to the relaxed tapas-style dining of the Club Lounge, you’ll find exquisite cuisine, skillfully prepared by top chefs.
Plus, our carefully curated in-room menu offers a relaxing dining experience in the comfort of your own stateroom
If you are looking to experience the remote Polar regions or explore truly off-the-beaten path destinations and cultures of our spectacular planet, then you are in great company. Swan Hellenic exists to provide its guests with authentic, intimate and unforgettable moments in extraordinary locations and remote landmarks.
We know how important outdoor space is, so our spacious, relaxing public spaces provide wide open, unobstructed views throughout the ship. The destination will always be in view.
Take time to indulge and invigorate your senses…
Please note; there are no dedicated children's facilities on board.
Kids 8-12 are free of charge when sharing a room with an adult (only port taxes if any).
Kids 13-16 are charged at $100 USD per child per day plus port taxes
*port taxes will be added to your onboard bill for child fares*
